By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has many across the country rethinking their dependence on oil and gas. But here in the River Parishes it seems most have a different idea.

Last week, L’Observateur asked readers, “What sacrifices would you be willing to make to reduce oil consumption?”

Despite a range of options, nearly three-quarters of those who answered the poll said they would not perform any of the suggested actions to curb petroleum dependence.

Of those who were willing to make one or more of the suggested sacrifices, the most popular choice was to invest in a hybrid vehicle. Slightly less popular were the options to limit driving or using public transportation and to limit the use of energy-gobbling appliances such as air conditioning. Both of these options received just under 5 percent of the vote.

Local environmentalists, however, do have one glimmer of green hope left. Almost 10 percent of respondents aid they would be willing to make all of the sacrifices listed as answers.

A full breakdown of responses follows:

• 4 percent of respondents chose “Limit driving/take public transportation.”

• 4 percent of respondents chose, “Limit use of appliances and air conditioning.”

• 2 percent of respondents chose, “Limit use of electronic devices.”

• 7 percent of respondents chose, “Invest in a hybrid.”

• 9 percent of respondents chose, “All of the above.”

• 74 percent of respondents chose, “None of the above.”

This week’s question: Despite reports that the economy is improving, many in the area still feel the pinch. How does the current economic situation continue to affect you?

Visit www.lobservateur.com to vote.